Euro NCAP recorded the highest ever score by a Plug-in Hybrid car, with the Volvo scoring 93 per cent for adult occupancy, 83 per cent for child occupants and 65 per cent for pedestrian impact. The hybrid V60 also scored the maximum 100 per cent for its safety assist systems.

“We apply the same high standards to all our products. The Euro NCAP score demonstrates that the ingenious V60 Plug-in Hybrid features the same outstanding safety level as the standard car,” says Jan Ivarsson, senior manager safety strategy & requirements at Volvo Car Group. Due to the extra weight and packaging of the electric motors and battery pack, the car has had to be extensively re-engineered in order to be so safe.

At the same time, 15 other cars were tested, with the big results being that the Dacia Lodgy (an MPV not destined for the UK) only achieving three stars, whilst the all-new Range Rover managed a five-star rating. The new Ford Fiesta and Mercedes A-Class also impressed with their crash avoidance technology, and both achieved five-star ratings.
By James Richardson